As one of the liveliest cities in the United States, Crescent City(a.k.a. New Orleans “The Big Easy”), is located on a bend in the Mississippi River. As well as being the busiest part of New Orleans, the French Quarter is home to many historical sites and museums.
Tourism has rebounded since Hurricane Katrina ravaged the city in 2005, and much of the city looks the same as it did before. While Katrina has not defined the city, it is still affected. Travelers will find a safe, fun city with plenty to do.
Gay History
New Orleans has a rich history of LGBTQ+ culture and activism. The first recorded mention of homosexuality in the city dates back to 1724. In the late 19th century, New Orleans’ legal red-light district, Storyville, became home to a portion of the city’s queer, trans, and black populations, who were pushed to the margins of society 2. The district was renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and jazz music clubs, which flourished during that time.
In the early 1970s, gay activism began to emerge in New Orleans with groups like the Gay Liberation Front of New Orleans and the Tulane University Gay Students Union. Today, New Orleans is known for its vibrant and inclusive LGBTQ+ community. There are many attractions in the city that cater to this community, such as Bourbon Street, which is famous for its nightlife and is home to many LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. Gray Line New Orleans offers a variety of LGBTQ+ friendly tours, including the Original CRAFT Cocktail Tour.
Famous LGBTQ+ people from New Orleans. Here are some of them:
Tennessee Williams
Tennessee Williams: The famous playwright and author of “A Streetcar Named Desire” lived in New Orleans from 1938 until his death in 1983.
Frances Benjamin Johnston
Frances Benjamin Johnston: A pioneering photographer who retired to New Orleans in 1940 and lived there until her death in 1952.
Big Freedia
Big Freedia: A New Orleans-based rapper and musician who is known as the “Queen of Bounce”.
Randy Rainbow
Randy Rainbow: A comedian, singer, and internet celebrity who was born and raised in New York City but has family roots in New Orleans.
Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres: Although she was not born in New Orleans, Ellen DeGeneres spent part of her childhood in the city and has spoken fondly of her time there .
“The Big Easy: A Gay Traveler’s Guide to New Orleans”
I am excited to share my experience of New Orleans with you! New Orleans is a vibrant city that is home to a great gay scene and the famous annual Mardi Gras celebrations. Here are some of the best gay accommodations, bars, restaurants, and dance clubs in the city:
Gay Accommodations:
Bourbon Orleans Hotel: This French Quarter hotel is a great option for gay travelers. It features an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and live jazz music. The hotel is located within walking distance to popular attractions like St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square.
Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter: This newly renovated hotel offers balcony views of the courtyard and Bourbon Street. It features all-day Cajun cuisine, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center.
Gay Bars:
Bourbon Pub and Parade: This is one of the most popular gay bars in New Orleans. It features a lively atmosphere, great drinks, and a friendly crowd.
Cafe Lafitte in Exile: This is the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the United States. It features a cozy atmosphere, great drinks, and a friendly crowd.
As for gay-friendly restaurants, here are some great options:
Café Amelie: This restaurant is located in the heart of the French Quarter and features a beautiful courtyard. It offers a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Sylvain: This restaurant is located in the French Quarter and features a cozy atmosphere. It offers a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Luke: This Creole-inspired brasserie is located in the Central Business District and offers a range of seafood dishes and cocktails.
Roberts Gumbo Shop: This casual restaurant in the French Quarter serves up traditional Creole cuisine, including gumbo and jambalaya.
Brennan’s: This Creole restaurant in the French Quarter is famous for its breakfast dishes, including eggs Benedict and bananas Foster.
Restaurant AUGUST: This contemporary Creole restaurant is located in a historic 19th-century building in the Central Business District and features a menu that highlights local ingredients.
Gay Dance Clubs:
Oz: This is a lively gay nightclub located in the French Quarter. It features great music, a friendly crowd, and a fun atmosphere.
The Bourbon Pub & Parade: This is a popular 2-level gay nightclub in New Orleans. It features great music, a friendly crowd, and a fun atmosphere.
“The Big Easy: A Gay Traveler’s Guide to New Orleans”
New Orleans is known for its vibrant and inclusive LGBTQ+ community. There are many attractions in the city that cater to this community. Here are some of the top-rated ones:
Visit the French Quarter: The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans and home to many of the city’s best bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s also the site of the annual Mardi Gras celebrations, which are a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Take a walking tour: New Orleans is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many walking tours available that explore the city’s past. Some popular tours include the Ghost Tour, the Voodoo Tour, and the Garden District Tour.
Explore the art scene: New Orleans has a thriving art scene, with many galleries and museums showcasing the work of local artists. Some of the best places to check out include the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and the Contemporary Arts Center.
Enjoy the nightlife: New Orleans is famous for its nightlife, and there are many gay bars and clubs in the city. Some of the best options include the Bourbon Pub and Parade, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, and Good Friends Bar.
Mardi Gras in New Orleans
Mardi Gras: This annual festival is one of the biggest celebrations in the city. It features parades, music, and lots of colorful costumes.
The National WWII Museum
National WWII Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of World War II. It features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
Jackson Square
Jackson Square: This historic park is located in the heart of the French Quarter. It features beautiful gardens, street performers, and artists.
Bourbon Street: This street is famous for its nightlife and is home to many LGBTQ+ bars and clubs.
Gray Line New Orleans: This tour company offers a variety of LGBTQ+ friendly tours, including the Original CRAFT Cocktail Tour .
“The Big Easy: A Gay Traveler’s Guide to New Orleans”
When it comes to gay-friendly neighborhoods, New Orleans has several options. Some of the most popular neighborhoods and things to do for gay travelers include:
Faubourg Marigny: This neighborhood is located just east of the French Quarter and is known for its colorful architecture and vibrant nightlife. It’s also home to many gay bars and clubs.
The French Quarter: The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans and is home to many of the city’s best bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s also the site of the annual Mardi Gras celebrations.
Pigeon Town: This neighborhood is located in Uptown New Orleans and is known for its quiet streets and historic architecture. It’s also home to many artists and musicians.
I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to New Orleans. Have a great time exploring this amazing city! 🎉🎉🎉